The department said Monday that Chief Brent Smith left the department to return to his old job at Bell Helicopter.

Smith was with the department for 20 years before he retired. He became chief in June 2014. Smith will be replaced by Interim Fire Chief Keith Fortner. Fortner has been with the department for 13 years.

"Chief Smith had to make a tough decision for his family and announced he will be stepping down as chief," Fortner said.

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for two East Texas Counties. Shelby and San Augustine Counties are under a tornado warning until 9 p.m. Please seek shelter immediately. This story will continue to update. Stay with KLTV for the latest updates. Copyright 2018 KLTV. All rights reserved.

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for two East Texas Counties. Shelby and San Augustine Counties are under a tornado warning until 9 p.m. Please seek shelter immediately. This story will continue to update. Stay with KLTV for the latest updates. Copyright 2018 KLTV. All rights reserved.